Republic of Congo - 5-Protection of Property Rights Republic of Congo - Property Rights
Real Property
There is a codified process on acquisition and retention of real property though the process is not always followed. There are widespread complaints against the government’s administration of real property transactions.Intellectual Property Rights
As a member of the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC), the Republic of Congo is automatically a member of the African Intellectual Property Organization (AIPO). AIPO is charged with issuing a single copyright system that is enforceable in all member states. As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Republic of Congo must ensure that its legislation conforms to trade-related aspects governing intellectual property.
The Ministry of Commerce and other interested ministries work together to address issues related to counterfeit products and other items entering the country illegally. Local authorities have seized and destroyed containers of contraband items, such as medical supplies and food products. There have been complaints of Republic of Congo government computers using unlicensed software.
No new IP related laws or regulations been enacted in the past year.
There is no formal system for the country/economy to track and report on seizures of counterfeit goods.
The Republic of Congo is not listed in the United States Trade Representative’s (USTR’s) Special 301 report, or in USTR’s Notorious Market Report.
For additional information about national laws and points of contact at local IP offices, please see WIPO’s country profiles.